Eye Health & Vision Resources
Your eyes are an important part of your overall health.
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​Eye health is about more than seeing clearly. It includes protecting your vision, recognizing changes, accessing the right care, and finding practical tools and resources to support your quality of life.
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​This page brings together trusted information about eye health, common eye conditions, vision care, and Canadian resources. Whether you're looking for everyday eye health information or additional support after a diagnosis, we hope you'll find helpful guidance here.
Why Eye Health Matters
Our eyes play an important role in how we experience the world and are closely connected to our overall health.
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Many eye conditions develop gradually and may not cause noticeable symptoms in their early stages. Regular eye exams can help detect changes early, monitor your vision over time, and connect you with appropriate care when needed.
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Whether you're maintaining healthy vision, living with an eye condition, or adjusting to changes in your eyesight, understanding your eye health can help you make informed decisions and access the support that's right for you.
Common Eye Conditions
Learning about common eye conditions can help you better understand changes in your vision, recognize symptoms, and know when to seek professional care. While some conditions develop gradually over time, others require prompt medical attention.
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Below is an introduction to several common eye conditions. Remember that only a qualified eye care professional can diagnose an eye condition or recommend appropriate treatment.
Cataracts
A cataract is the clouding of the eye's natural lens, causing vision to become blurry or dull over time. Cataracts are very common as we age and are one of the leading causes of vision loss worldwide. Fortunately, cataract surgery is one of the most common and successful surgical procedures performed today.
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Common symptoms
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Blurred or cloudy vision
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Difficulty seeing at night
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Increased sensitivity to glare
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Colours appearing faded or yellowed
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Frequent changes to your eyeglass prescription
Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, often due to increased pressure inside the eye. Vision loss caused by glaucoma cannot be reversed, but early detection and treatment can help slow or prevent further damage.
Common symptoms
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Glaucoma often has no early symptoms. As it progresses, symptoms may include:
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Gradual loss of peripheral (side) vision
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Blurred vision
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Halos around lights
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Sudden eye pain and vision changes (medical emergency in some forms of glaucoma)
Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
AMD affects the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision. It is one of the leading causes of vision loss among older adults.
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Common symptoms
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Blurred central vision
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Difficulty reading
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Straight lines appearing wavy
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Dark or empty areas in central vision
Dry Eye Disease
Dry eye disease occurs when your eyes do not produce enough tears or when tears evaporate too quickly. It is a common condition that can range from mild irritation to significant discomfort.
Common symptoms
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Burning or stinging
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Redness
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A gritty or sandy feeling
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Fluctuating vision
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Watery eyes
Diabetic Eye Disease
Diabetes can affect the small blood vessels in the retina, increasing the risk of vision loss if left untreated. Regular eye exams are an important part of diabetes management.
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Common symptoms
Early stages may not cause noticeable symptoms. As changes progress, symptoms may include:
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Blurred vision
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Floaters
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Difficulty seeing at night
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Vision loss
Retinal Conditions
The retina is the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. Several conditions can affect the retina and may require prompt medical attention.
Seek urgent medical care if you experience:
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A sudden increase in floaters
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Flashes of light
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A curtain or shadow over part of your vision
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Sudden vision loss
Low Vision & Vision Loss
Vision loss can occur for many different reasons and affects everyone differently. While some causes of vision loss can be treated, others are permanent. Rehabilitation services, assistive technology, and practical adaptations can help people maintain independence and continue doing the activities that matter most.
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Living Well with Vision Changes
Adjusting to changes in your vision can take time. Whether your vision changes are temporary, gradual, or permanent, support and practical strategies can help you continue living an active and fulfilling life.
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Many people benefit from simple adaptations such as improving lighting, increasing text size on digital devices, reducing glare, or using magnification tools. Others may work with low vision specialists or rehabilitation professionals to learn new techniques for everyday activities such as reading, cooking, travelling, or working.
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Support is available through organizations across Canada that provide education, rehabilitation services, assistive technology, and peer support for people living with vision loss.